Molly Osborne Stars as Desdemona in Broadway's 'Othello'

Summary

All Of It Podcast Episode Summary: Molly Osborne Stars as Desdemona in Broadway's 'Othello'

Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Molly Osborne
Episode Release Date: April 3, 2025
Podcast: All Of It by WNYC
Description: All Of It explores the depths of culture and its consumers, engaging with creators, thinkers, and makers to uncover the what and why behind their work.

---

1. Introduction to the Broadway Revival of 'Othello'

Alison Stewart opens the episode by discussing the highly anticipated Broadway revival of Shakespeare’s Othello, directed by Kenny Leon and featuring renowned actors Denzel Washington as Othello and Jake Gyllenhaal as Iago. The production is notably set in the near future and emphasizes American accents, diverging from traditional interpretations.

"Broadway Othello, set in the future, starring two unnamed A-listers, American accents only."
— Alison Stewart [00:39]

2. Molly Osborne's Casting Experience

Molly Osborne shares her journey to securing the role of Desdemona, highlighting the rigorous audition process and her initial skepticism about being cast. She narrates her surprise upon receiving positive feedback from Denzel Washington and the surreal experience of working alongside such esteemed actors.

"I was super, super thrilled to have the audition come through, but I really didn't think, particularly as it was going to be American accents, I thought, I'm really not going to be their gal for this one."
— Molly Osborne [04:51]

3. From Auditioning to Broadway Success

Prior to landing the role, Molly was immersed in the typical struggles of an actor, juggling auditions, side gigs, and temporary jobs to make ends meet. Her persistence paid off when she was cast as Desdemona, a pivotal character in one of Shakespeare's greatest tragedies.

"I really was in denial about it for a long time. And I don't tend to kind of celebrate things until I see it in writing, you know."
— Molly Osborne [06:31]

4. Deepening Understanding of 'Othello'

Initially familiar with Othello from high school, Molly discusses how her comprehension of the play has evolved through her involvement in the production. She emphasizes the timeless themes of jealousy, betrayal, and love, and how the contemporary setting amplifies these elements by reflecting current societal and political climates.

"I really didn't sort of get the depth of it as a 15-year-old... love in a war zone, and it's about... betrayal that we can watch now and see reflected in the politics of today."
— Molly Osborne [07:28]

5. Portraying an Empowered Desdemona

Molly highlights the modern interpretation of Desdemona, who possesses significant agency and autonomy within the narrative. She contrasts Desdemona’s hopeful nature with Amelia’s military gravitas, showcasing a dynamic interplay between the two female characters that fosters growth and empowerment.

"Desdemona has this kind of hope for the good and kind of comes from a place of love... feeling empowered by that, which is really cool."
— Molly Osborne [08:58]

6. The Impact of Costuming on Character Development

Discussing the role of costume design, Molly explains how her tailored suits and constant wearing of heels reflect Desdemona’s status and privilege. The costumes not only enhance her physical portrayal but also symbolize the social constraints that her character navigates throughout the play.

"Daede Aite has designed the costumes, and they are very powerful... reflects her status and her privilege."
— Molly Osborne [10:19]

7. Desdemona's Perspective on Marriage and Social Change

Molly delves into Desdemona’s unwavering belief in love and her role as a beacon of hope for societal change. She articulates how Desdemona embodies the aspiration for a world free from misogynist and racist prejudices, emphasizing the character’s pure and steadfast love for Othello.

"Desdemona represents that hope for change and how that we're working towards a world where... we don't judge each other in that way."
— Molly Osborne [11:24]

8. Analyzing Desdemona's Defiance and Diplomacy

In response to a specific line from Othello, Molly analyzes Desdemona’s diplomatic defiance towards her father. She portrays Desdemona as both young and autonomous, effectively challenging her father’s disapproval with elegance and strategic communication.

"With one sort of very short speech, she manages to convince him and the entire room that his behavior is inappropriate."
— Molly Osborne [12:49]

9. Collaborating with Esteemed Actors and Director Kenny Leon

Molly reflects on the invaluable experience of working with Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal under the direction of Kenny Leon. She praises Leon’s supportive approach, which fosters authenticity and creativity, allowing actors to immerse themselves fully in their roles.

"The opportunity to watch and learn from the greats and see how they... absorb that is just such a gift."
— Molly Osborne [14:36]

10. Exploring Complex Emotions in 'Othello'

The conversation touches upon the intricate emotional landscape of the play, particularly Desdemona’s struggle with the mounting hostility from Othello, influenced by his military experiences and PTSD. Molly discusses the nuanced portrayal of these tensions, adding depth to Desdemona’s character.

"The hate that she gets from Othello... exploring what it is like to be in the military and in the Marines and be fighting for your country."
— Molly Osborne [15:48]

11. Musical Theater Roots and Aspirations in Shakespeare

Molly reveals her background in musical theater and her longstanding admiration for Shakespearean performances. She expresses her fulfillment in achieving her dream role in a Shakespeare play, highlighting her versatility and dedication to the craft.

"I trained in musical theater, so I don't know how I managed to get here doing a Shakespeare play, which is my dream to do."
— Molly Osborne [17:28]

12. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Alison Stewart wraps up the interview by expressing enthusiasm for Molly’s portrayal of Desdemona and her journey in Othello. Molly conveys her gratitude and excitement for the production, reaffirming her commitment to the role and the broader theatrical community.

"Thanks so much for having me."
— Molly Osborne [17:55]

---

This episode of All Of It offers an insightful exploration into Molly Osborne’s role in the Broadway revival of Othello, shedding light on the creative processes behind modernizing a classic play and the personal growth of an emerging actress within a high-profile production.

Transcript

[Alison Stewart]

All of it is supported by Progressive Insurance. You chose to hit play on this podcast today. Smart choice. Make another smart choice with Auto Quote Explorer to compare rates for multiple car insurance companies all at once. Try [e-mail] Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates not available in all states or situations. Prices vary based on how you buy.

[Molly Osbourne]

Listener supported WNYC Studios.

[Alison Stewart]

This is all of it on wnyc. I'm Alison Stewart. The description for the casting notice read Broadway Othello, set in the future, starring two unnamed A listers, American accents only. We soon learned that playing Shakespeare's Moorish general would be Denzel Washington and his skills right hand man would be Jake Gyllenhaal with Kenny Leon directing. In fact, we had Kenny on the show right after that announcement was made last summer.

[Molly Osbourne]

Around the time we end home. I'll start our town rehearsals and then go into Othello with Denzel and Jake Gyllenhaal in January. So I'm looking forward to that.

[Alison Stewart]

Any word on Desdemona?

[Molly Osbourne]

Oh yeah, we cast her.

[Alison Stewart]

Who is it?

[Molly Osbourne]

We cast her.

[Alison Stewart]

Who is it? We've cast her.

[Molly Osbourne]

We cast her. She is wonderful. But we can' Until September.

[Alison Stewart]

Okay. The news came a little sooner. Molly Osborne would play Desdemona, the loving wife of Othello and the objective of Iago's manipulation. A native of Essex, Malika was working as a 20 something actor in the UK, receiving good notices on the West End. But it was a tape that she made for Othello that changed her career. Now this is a tough ticket. There are a lot of lotteries. The premiere was a star studded event. Spike Lee, Colman Domingo, even former President Biden were on hand. But take away all the gloss, it is one of great Shakespeare's greatest tragedies and one of his greatest plays. Molly Osborne is on stage as Desdemona in Othello at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre and she joins me now in studio. Hi, Molly. Hi. That was funny to hear.

[Molly Osbourne]

That was so funny to hear. Oh my goodness. That takes me back. Like I can't believe it's been a whole year since I sort of sent those tapes in and now here we are. And yeah, very surreal.

[Alison Stewart]

Well, before you sent the tapes in, before you even thought about auditioning for Othello, what were you working on?

[Molly Osbourne]

Oh my goodness. Auditioning here, there and everywhere for whatever I could get my hands on with my lovely agents and my, my lovely manager and just temping and working other little jobs to, you know, pay the rent.

[Alison Stewart]

And you were working actor you had gigs, Side gigs.

[Molly Osbourne]

Yeah, that's right. Yeah, yeah, yeah, absolutely. As. As everyone does, as, you know the game really, isn't it?

[Alison Stewart]

Yeah. What was the role that made you realize I'm going to be an actor?

[Molly Osbourne]

Oh, my goodness. Great question. I don't know. I maybe like, youth theater roles, I guess. I think the first, like, thing I did in, like, a really big theater, it felt like really big at the time. The Mercury Theatre in Colchester, where I grew up, which is such an amazing theater to have as like a teen. We did the. There was an Am Dram production of the Sound of Music that I auditioned for and got into to play Liesl, I think. And I think it was then watching everyone do their thing, even just, like, people who are stage management, people who are working front of house, the people who are working, building the sets, kind of realizing that it was, like a viable job option to work in the arts in any kind of sense. I think that's when I was. I realized that I really wanted to study and I really wanted to kind of be in the theatre industry or in the film industry in some capacity. And then, I guess, you know, was lucky enough to get into drama school and have a lot of very nice people open some very nice doors for me. Yeah.

[Alison Stewart]

I heard or I read somewhere that you were a flatmate of one of the members of Operation Mincemeat, Correct?

[Molly Osbourne]

Yeah. He's actually with me, staying with me here in New York now. I'm going to meet them afterwards and he's going to watch the Broadway production tonight. Just. So. Yeah, he was covering when they were first in the West End and then took over the role when they then came to Broadway. So.

[Alison Stewart]

Yeah, so funny.

[Molly Osbourne]

It's such a great show. I absolutely adore it.

[Alison Stewart]

They were on earlier this week. They were hilarious.

[Molly Osbourne]

They're so funny. They're brilliant.

[Alison Stewart]

All right, you saw the description. Broadway Othello, set in the future, starring two unnamed A listers, American accents only. How did you prepare? What did you prepare?

[Molly Osbourne]

I really. Yeah, I think it was. I think it was two scenes from the play that they had sent and then two other monologues from any Shakespeare play of my choice. And then a little clip just like. I think. I think the brief was, say, a funny story about yourself. And I had a few other tapes to do that weekend, and I honestly saw the Breakdown and I was like. I was like, sure. Yeah, I was like, sure. You know, I really didn't think. I was super, super thrilled to have the audition come through, but I really didn't think, particularly as it was going to be American accents, I thought, I'm really not going to be their gal for this one. So I always think that kind of works in my favor when you kind of. You just do the work and then you move on. And that's kind of what I did for that. I just sort of did one or two takes for each of the scenes and told a very silly story that, you know, down the line I couldn't quite believe was, you know, being sent to Denzel Washington to watch, to approve. Really, really wild. And it was a few weeks in between each interaction, and it was a few weeks after I sent the tapes and said sort of bye, bye, you know, see you. That'll be out in the ether somewhere, so maybe someone will see it. And then I met Kenny a few weeks later and we sat down for a few hours. And that was just amazing in itself to kind of spend some time with him and speak to him about his process, which, yeah, it was so lovely.

[Alison Stewart]

What did you think when you found out you got the role of Desdemona?

[Molly Osbourne]

I really was in denial about it for a long time. And I don't tend to kind of celebrate things until I see it in writing, you know, which was actually months and months and months later. So I think like throughout that, throughout last summer, it was sort of kind of sinking in that it was happening and then was getting, you know, FaceTimes from Denzel and was kind of like, what, what? Like just laughing down the phone, like, what is happening right now? Very, very surreal. And I think once I got here and we started rehearsals was really when I kind of. It kind of landed that this was actually happening.

[Alison Stewart]

My guest is Molly Osbourne. She plays Desdemona in Othello, now running on Broadway. Before being in Othello, what did you understand the play of Othello to be? And now that you have been through it, have been through rehearsals, have appeared on stage, what do you understand about it now?

[Molly Osbourne]

Yeah, I studied it in high school and when I got the tape through, I've actually had the playtext from when I was in year 10 or when I was like 15. Had all these sort of, you know, little notes of, of the play that. Yeah, as looking back now, I really didn't sort of get the depth of it as a 15 year old, you know, or I guess every time you revisit a play as you grow, you kind of relate to things more. And of course, studying at school, I guess I knew kind of all of those themes of that it's about jealousy and betrayal and love. And I think now approaching it, particularly as Kenny sets it, in the near future as well, it's about love in a war zone, and it's about, you know, that betrayal that we can watch now and see reflected in the politics of today. And I really think a play that is over. It's really amazing that a play that's over 400 years old can still be so relevant and we can still find new meanings in it all the time as we all grow as well. And I think that's such a great choice to set it so slightly separated from now, but. But in a way that. Where we can see ourselves mirrored back to us. Yeah.

[Alison Stewart]

Desdemona is a woman of Venice, the daughter of a senator. Your Desdemona has some agency.

[Molly Osbourne]

Yeah, yeah, definitely. And I think, to answer your last question as well, finding that agency and finding a connection with the role of Amelia, with the character Amelia is something I didn't quite clock as well when I was younger. Interesting how that's been portrayed in this play and how Amelia is in the military herself and how, as an audience member, you get to kind of watch them as two women in the play, kind of really balance each other out, where Amelia has this gravitas and this experience where. Which Desdemona lacks. And yet Desdemona has this kind of hope for the good and kind of. She comes from. She has such a good heart, and she comes from a place of love. So, yeah, watching them balance each other out and learn from each other and grow together in this production is really beautiful thing, I think. And I feel like I'm learning a lot as well doing the production. As a young woman in this industry, I'm kind of taking inspiration from that and kind of feeling empowered by that, which is really cool.

[Alison Stewart]

It's set in the near future. Desmona has tailored suits. She wears pants. How would you describe what she's wearing? And then how does the costuming help you get into character?

[Molly Osbourne]

Oh, yeah, definitely. Daede Aite has designed the costumes, and they are very powerful. And initially, she wears heels the whole time, which I actually don't think I've ever done a job where that's the case.

[Alison Stewart]

Wow.

[Molly Osbourne]

I got these, like, big heels and, like, strutting about, you know, I'm sort of finding this kind of physicality actually, that really reflects her status and her privilege, where she comes from and who her father is, and that kind of. Where she's in that kind of social bubble almost that gets burst throughout the play. So yeah, it has been really great to find that kind of like. That kind of almost like strut and kind of waftiness to her through the costumes. And also, they're just fabulous to wear.

[Alison Stewart]

What does your Desdemona. What does she think of her marriage to Othello?

[Molly Osbourne]

What I love about Desdemona is love is love for her. She is. It's just very simple, I think. And I think the kind of fuss that's made about it in the beginning of the play. You're marrying this man. And there's these misogynist undertones, racist undertones in that first. Those first few scenes of the play. I think Desdemona kind of represents that hope for change and how that we're working towards a world where, you know, those things are washed away and we don't judge each other in that way. And. Yeah, it's. It's. I think she. She just believes in the good in people. And I think love is love for her.

[Alison Stewart]

I've got my college text of Othello here.

[Molly Osbourne]

You do?

[Alison Stewart]

And this. This line, it's Desmone says, my noble father, I do perceive here a divided duty to you I am bound for life and education. My life and education both do learn me how to respect you. You are the lord of duty. I am hitherto your daughter, but here is my husband. And so much duty as my mother showed to you, preferring you before her father so much, I challenge that I may profess due to the more, my lord. Why does she want to defy her father so much?

[Molly Osbourne]

Well, interestingly, I think in this speech, she's very diplomatic.

[Alison Stewart]

She is.

[Molly Osbourne]

She's very clever. She goes towards her father, having sort of rejected him and gone, you know, behind his back. But she goes towards him and speaks to him in a way where he will understand and uses, you know, uses the evidence. That's all true. It's all out there. And with. With one sort of very short speech, she manages to convince him and the entire room that his behavior is inappropriate and is not right at all. And he. It shuts him up, which is. Yeah. Like is. Is. Is fun. Fun to do. And. What was the actual question you asked me? Sorry, I just.

[Alison Stewart]

Why does she defy her father? But your point is, like, you're very. But she's very elegant in the way she defies.

[Molly Osbourne]

Exactly. Yeah. And I. Yeah, I think that's. There's kind of some of her youth comes through there where she. And some of some immaturity, I guess, or like she's. She's in her early 20s in this. In this production that we're doing. And I guess she's in a bit of a rebellious stage and she doesn't feel the need to get approval from her father anymore, which I think is very modern, of course, and she can validate that for herself and she can, you know, have her own autonomy and make her own choices.

[Alison Stewart]

My guest is Molly Osbourne. She plays Desdemona in Othello, now running on Broadway. You're working with two very well known actors, Denzel Washington as Othello and Jake Gyllenh as Iago. What advice did Kenny Leon give you about working with experienced actors?

[Molly Osbourne]

Oh, my goodness. Well, you know, the support he gave really was kind of letting us be who we are, I think, which is such a beautiful thing. Kenny has such a beautiful heart and comes from such a great place and, you know, it's such an honor and a privilege to be in that room and to observe and have the opportunity to watch and learn from the greats and see how they, you know, run the room and what they do in their process and to be able to be around that and absorb that is just such a gift and like what any actor could ever hope for, let alone kind of partake in it as well, and also play in the scenes with them. And, you know, once we'd like really kind of gotten to know each other, we could really. And we still are. It's all sort of very alive. Even now. We can really start to sort of play with the material and let it be. Yeah.

[Alison Stewart]

In the play, your character takes on such hate for the man she loves. What's going through Desmona's mind as she's experienced this hate from others from. But then also from her husband.

[Molly Osbourne]

Yes, yes. Well, the hate she gets for who she loves, to me, I feel I sort of channel not rising to it because it's ignorance in that sense. And then the hate that she gets from Othello. I think we also went down this avenue where we were really exploring what it is like to be in the military and in the Marines and be fighting for your country in a war zone and what that can do to you and what PTSD can do to you. So I feel like that kind of turn in the second act where the conflict begins with between Othello and Desdemona is. Is sort of molded around that fact of kind of looking at this man who has seen war and has been through it and seeing the effects of that and kind of. I fear for him. I worry about him. I think she does. I think she initially doesn't think it's to do with her, which becomes her downfall. So it's very interesting to tread that line because the second act is a very lean hour and it kind of is a slippery slope. So it's very nuanced. And, yeah, it's great fun to sort of dissect and really get into.

[Alison Stewart]

We get to hear you sing.

[Molly Osbourne]

Yes. With the amazing Kimber Kimberly Sproul.

[Alison Stewart]

Are you a theater kid?

[Molly Osbourne]

Yeah, yeah, I am. I trained in musical theater, so I don't know how I managed to get here doing a Shakespeare play, which is my dream to do. I've always, always admired actors who work on Shakespeare. So, yes. Yeah. Theatre kids through and through.

[Alison Stewart]

Well, we'll get to hear you sing one day, I'm sure. On Broadway, my guest has been Molly Osbourne. She's playing Desdemona in Othello, now running on Broadway. Really nice to meet you.

[Molly Osbourne]

You too. Thanks so much for having me.

[Ira Flatow]

This is Ira Flato, host of Science Friday. For over 30 years, the science Friday team has been reporting high quality science and technology news, making science fun for curious people by covering everything from the outer reaches of space to the rapidly changing world of AI to the tiniest microbes in our bodies. Audiences trust our show because they know we're driven by a mission to inform and serve listeners first and foremost with important news they won't get anywhere else. And our sponsors benefit from that halo effect. For more information on becoming a sponsor, visit sponsorship.wnyc.org.